Today we’d like to introduce you to Damari Trefethen.
Hi Damari, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My love for the beauty industry started when I was a little girl, long before I ever imagined it becoming my career. I originally worked in the accounting field, but after becoming a fully licensed cosmetologist, I knew I had found the work I was meant to do. I spent 11 years at the same salon, growing as a colorist and stylist, and working closely with brides—something that has always been a special part of my artistry.
In 2023, I faced a difficult season marked by illness and personal setbacks that ultimately pushed me to reevaluate my path. That moment became a turning point. Instead of stepping back, I decided to move forward with purpose.
In 2024, I opened Damari Beauty, a salon studio that reflects both my professional experience and the passion I’ve carried since childhood. Today, I serve clients throughout Southwest Florida as a salon owner and bridal hair and makeup artist. My goal is simple: to create an experience where every woman feels cared for, confident, and beautiful. My journey has shaped me in countless ways, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to do what I love every day.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The road definitely hasn’t been smooth. For a long time, I balanced financial struggles, personal challenges, and the pressure of trying to grow in a saturated industry that demands both creativity and consistency. In 2023, I faced a major illness along with a series of unexpected setbacks that affected my work, my relationships, and my stability. It was one of those seasons where everything seemed to hit at once, and I had to make the choice to either pause or push forward.
That period forced me to rebuild from the inside out. I had to learn resilience, trust my instincts, and become comfortable taking risks—especially the risk of opening my own salon. There were moments of doubt, moments where I questioned everything, but overcoming those challenges made me stronger as both an artist and a business owner.
Those obstacles shaped me. They taught me perseverance, patience, and the importance of creating a career that aligns with who I am. Today, I look back at that difficult chapter with gratitude because it ultimately led me to where I am now.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
My artistry is deeply shaped by both my lifelong love for beauty and the personal challenges I’ve overcome. I’ve always believed that beauty has the power to lift people, and that belief became even stronger during some of the hardest seasons of my life. Those moments taught me resilience, intention, and the importance of creating work that truly makes women feel seen and empowered.
As a bridal hair and makeup artist, I’m known for soft, effortless beauty, glowing skin, and hair that moves naturally yet photographs flawlessly. But what really defines my approach is connection. I take time to understand each client’s energy, personality, and vision, and I create from there. My goal is to enhance their natural features while giving them a sense of confidence that lasts long after they leave my chair.
Every look I create is influenced by where I’ve been, what I’ve overcome, and the joy I feel doing what I love. That combination of resilience and artistry is what fuels my work and keeps me evolving in this industry.
We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you?
I think luck has shown up in my life in unexpected ways. I’ve definitely experienced what felt like “bad luck” at times—moments where things fell apart all at once, both personally and professionally. But looking back, those seasons pushed me into the kind of growth I probably wouldn’t have chosen on my own. They forced me to get stronger, more intentional, and more rooted in my purpose.
At the same time, I’ve also experienced moments of really good luck—meeting the right people, receiving support at the exact time I needed it, and doors opening when I least expected it. Even the timing of starting my own studio felt like a mix of preparation, faith, and a little bit of luck.
I don’t rely on luck, but I do recognize that both the “good” and the “bad” parts have shaped my journey. They’ve helped me trust myself, refine my vision, and build a business that reflects who I am today. In the end, I think luck shows up when you’re willing to do the work, stay resilient, and keep moving forward—no matter what comes your way.
Pricing:
- Pricing varies depending on the services, travel needs, and overall scope of the booking. For the most accurate and current rates, clients can visit my website at www.damaribeauty.com/book or inquire directly by emailing [email protected] so I can tailor a quote to their needs.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.damaribeauty.com/book
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/damaritrefethen
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1DUhNbmwgf/
Image Credits
Mark Schoenfelt Photography
